Franklin Public Library
Board of Directors Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2015
Present: Sandi Brandfonbrener, Monique Doyle, Kathleen Gerwatowski , Doug Newton and Suzanne
Stilgoe of the Board, and Library Director Felicia Oti.
Call to Order: Sandi called the meeting at 7:00 p.m.
Public Comment: None
Minutes: The minutes from the February meeting were amended and approved.
Report of the Board Members:
Sandi: Sandi commented on the success of the Legislative Breakfast. Over 50 people attended the
breakfast. The stories of the community patrons were very engaging.
Monique: Monique thanked Felicia on behalf of the Board for her efforts in planning the Legislative
Breakfast. She also shared details about LLB Architects, the architect selected for the
renovation/expansion project. The Franklin Public Library Foundation is still under consideration. A
preliminary discussion with the town attorney resulted in a suggestion to include members of the
community on the foundation board.
Doug: Doug commented on the attractive appearance of the quiet study room. The new chairs and the
removal of some of the clutter create an improved environment. Doug also inquired about the
possibility of digitizing some of the microfiche materials. Felicia gave Doug a history of the previous
vendors’ approach to digitization, which proved to have unexpected costs to host the material.
Library Director: The March book sale yielded a little more than $1600. It went very well, with lots of
light-hearted stories from the community. Felicia also shared the “Group of Thoughts” listing created by
the library staff for the renovation/expansion. She asked the Board if they had additional thoughts to
add. In addition, Barbara Andrews is expanding technology services to adults. Felicia also requested
suggestions for the Sunday afternoon movie schedule. The Library staff has recommended Mr.
Penumbra’s 24-Hour Bookstore by Robin Sloane for the Town Wide Read. This book appeals to adults
and teens. Felicia will ask the Friends of Franklin Library if they would like to host the book discussion.
Finally, the Volunteer Appreciation Brunch will be held on Saturday, April 25th. Felicia also recommended
that the Board begin to consider a policy for the community room, which will be accessible from the
outside and available beyond library hours.
Next meeting: The next meeting will be held on April 27, 2015.
Topics for next meeting: At the next meeting, we will review the critical needs for the renovation.
Felicia will also update the Board on the redesigned website.
Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 8:02 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Kathleen Gerwatowski